Elora Gorge

Elora Gorge is a limestone valley carved by the Grand River in Ontario, featuring sheer rock walls that rise about 22 meters above the water. The river has cut deeply into the geology, creating narrow canyon sections that extend for several kilometers.

The gorge formed during the last ice age as glacial meltwater carved through the limestone bedrock underneath, shaping the vertical rock walls we see today. This process created one of the most striking river valleys in the Ontario region.

The conservation area represents part of the Grand River system, designated as a Canadian Heritage River flowing 300 kilometers from Dundalk to Lake Erie.

Access to the gorge is possible via marked hiking trails that offer varying difficulty levels and views of the rock formations. The best time to visit is between May and October, when outdoor activities are most comfortable.

The river section contains class III rapids that guide experienced paddlers through narrow channels between limestone walls, offering a technical paddling adventure. These fast-moving waters make this section a draw for skilled kayakers and canoeists.